2002 Senior Seminar Symposium

• Tentative Senior Seminal Schedule
• Plenary Session
• Biochemistry & Chemistry Abstracts
• Biology
• Computer Sciences Abstracts
• Mathematics Abstracts
• Friday Sessions - Chemistry, Biochemistry, & Math
• Friday Sessions - Biology
• Friday Sessions - Computer Sciences
• Saturday Sessions - Biology
• Saturday Sessions - Computer Sciences

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PLENARY SESSION
1:30 PM
Jones Auditorium, Ragsdale Center

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WELCOME
ROGER YU, DEAN
SCHOOL OF NATURAL SCIENCES

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS
DAVID C.C. SPRAGUE '95
Ph.D. CANDIDATE, THE TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY SYSTEM HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER, DEPARTMENT OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY AND GENETICS

Title: How Saint Edward's University Prepared Me for a Career in Science

Abstract: One of Saint Edward's University's strengths is its strong liberal arts background. In addition to the major field the student has chosen to study, each student is expected to have a certain breadth of knowledge not required of some other educational institutions. The exposure to different viewpoints on life gives the Saint Edward's graduate a welcomed diversity in today's specialized market. In addition to having proficiency in a chosen field, it is a distinct advantage to have more options available when solving problems. One major factor in honing the student's ability to solve problems is Senior Seminar- where students create a research project, perform the research, and present their findings. The tools gained from participating in Senior Seminar will be useful to all careers as the formal conveyance of information begins with the conclusion of college education. This talk will focus on how the total educational experience at Saint Edward's University prepared a student for a career in the biological sciences.

Biochemistry and Chemistry Abstracts

Speaker: Kevin Condel
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisor: Dr. Eamonn Healy

Title: Peptidomimetic Inhibitors: A Combined Synthetic and Theoretical Study

Abstract: Peptidomimetics represent a powerful approach to pharmaceutical treatments based on enzymatically controlled reactions. Peptidomimetics are simply small organic molecules that serve to mimic the transition state of the natural substrate and thus serve to competitively inhibit the enzyme process. We are focusing on the design and synthesis of inhibitors for the serine protease thrombin. Thrombin plays a critical role in the formation of insoluble fibrin that can lead to life threatening medical conditions. Our synthetic scheme utilizes hydroxy-aldehydes in the synthesis of polypeptide isoteres for active site inhibition. Theoretical calculations are used to aid in the understanding of the steric and hydrophobic requirements of the enzymatic binding sites.

Speaker: Amber Gordon
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:00 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisor: Dr. Henry Altmiller

Title: Fluorimetric Determination of Lead in Soil

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to devise and test a new method for the determination of lead in soil. The standard method for such determinations is either AA or ICP spectroscopy. We are attempting to determine if a fluorometric method provides comparable results. The technique involves the extraction of lead from digested soil. A complex is then formed with lead, 18-crown- 6-ether, and eosin B. This complex fluoresces and the amount of lead in the soil sample can be determined from a standard plot and the fluorescent intensity. Results from samples taken from various locations will also be presented.

Speaker: Edward Hourani
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisors: Dr. Eamonn F. Healy and Dr. Mary Kopecki-Fjetland

Title: Designing a Recombinant DNA Methodology for the Production of Serine Carboxypeptidase II at the Undergraduate Level

Abstract: The enzyme serine carboxypeptidase contains a catalytic triad active site similar to that of the serine proteases but whose folding topology is very similar in structure to that of carboxypeptidase A, hence the name. Such a dichotomy raises very interesting questions regarding structure-activity relationships and raises the possibility of independent or convergent evolutionary schemes for these enzymes. We are designing a recombinant DNA methodology to express the protein in vivo so as to study various aspects of its structure and activity. Steps in the current design scheme include construction of a CPDY clone, overexpression of the recombinant protein in vivo, and isolation of the protein by affinity chromatography. Using the polymerase chain reaction and primers complementary to the ends of the coding region of CPDY, we have amplified a 1600 base pair fragment. We are currently subcloning this fragment into the PCRII vector. Gene verification will be achieved by Southern blot analysis, polymerase chain reaction, restriction digestions, and sequencing.

Speaker: Jessica Martinez
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:00 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisor: Dr. Henry Altmiller

Title: Determination of Gaseous Pollutants with IR Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography

Abstract: This project involved the comparison of two methods for the determination of a gaseous pollutant. Infrared Spectroscopy is the most common method used for such determinations. In using this method, we used a long path mini-cell with a path length of approximately 20-meters and monitored carbon dioxide. Some typical results include the determination of carbon dioxide in offices and outdoor areas. We then compared this method to results obtained using the gas chromatography. For this procedure we used a molecular sieve column and a thermal conductivity detector. Results from this procedure were obtained and the two methods are compared as to ease of use and accuracy of results.

Speaker: Monique L. Nixon
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisor: Dr. Eamonn Healy

Title: Use of UV-Visible and Raman Spectroscopy in the Study of Xanthine Oxidase

Abstract: Xanthine Oxidase (a 275 kDa dimer) primarily found in the liver and kidneys, functions by oxidizing xanthine to uric acid (an insoluble solution). Due to impaired synthesis of xanthine oxidase or uric acid secretion, conditions such as gout or hyperuricemia may result. Xanthine Oxidase contains bonded prosthetic groups (2 Mo, 2 Fe2S2, and 2 FAD molecules) in its active site. This research primarily focuses on the redox activity of Mo (IV) -> Mo (VI).

Recent work by Hille and coworkers demonstrated the utility of double-difference UV-Vis spectroscopy in following the redox changes of metals situated within the active site of enzymes. Using their methodology we report some spectroscopicmeasurements of the redox reactions of the Molybdenum within Xanthine Oxidase. In particular we look at the use of Sodium Hydrosulfite to reduce the Mo(VI) to Mo(IV), and the use of allopurinol to stabilize the metal in its reduced state.

Raman spectroscopy was used to follow the spectral changes associated with the construction of a model system mimicking the Mo active site. In particular Raman spectroscopy was used to identify the variation of amino acid-Mo binding with pH.

Speaker: Jon H. Steuernagle IV
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:00 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 204

Supervisor: Dr. Eamonn Healy

Title: Analysis of Anions by Capillary Electrophoresis Using Indirect Absorbance Detection

Abstract: Indirect absorbance detection in capillary electrophoresis (CE) is often used for the analysis of inorganic anions. This technique utilizes a UV-absorbing species in the background electrolyte (BGE) having the same charge as the analytes. Displacement of the BGE by migrating analytes results in a decrease in background absorbance and hence indirect detection of these species. This measurement is fully quantifiable. Based on earlier work by Doble and Haddad we report the optimization of this technique for the detection of chloride ion in concentrations of parts per billion (ppb). Specifically a two-probe BGE consisting of chromate and 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid allowed for an optimum peak shape and highest sensitivity in the separation of a mixture of our analytes of interest.

Biology Abstracts

Speaker: Saul Alanis
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Pharmacological Characterization of Potassium Channels in the Dorsal Aorta of Sea Lamprey, Petromyzon marinus

Abstract: Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is an important modulator of mammalian vascular smooth muscle. HPV matches ventilation to perfusion in the pulmonary vasculature by reducing blood flow to under-ventilated alveoli. Ions like calcium and potassium are required for normal contraction of mammalian smooth muscle. HPV has been shown to be calcium and potassium dependent, utilizing both intracellular and extracellular ions like calcium and potassium. Hypoxic vasoconstriction has been described in the pulmonary tissues of mammals, in the pulmonary tissues of the turtle (Trachemys scripta), in the gill tissues of rainbow trout (Onchorynchus mykiss), and cod (Gadus morhua). Our research has recently discovered and described the profound HV in the systemic vessels of cyclostomes the primitive cartilaginous fishes of the phylum Chordata and class Agnatha. The present study characterizes invitro the pharmacological utilization of potassium by smooth muscle in isolated dorsal aortas of the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus.

Speaker: Pofirio Arreguin IV
Candidate for Bachelor of Art in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:00 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Engineering Herbicide Resistant Maize using Chimeric RNA/DNA Oligonucleotides

Abstract: Recent studies on engineering genotypes of herbicide resistant maize have shown that the introduction of chimeric oligonucleotides targeting certain modifications in endogenous genes may hold much progress. Through past research, herbicide resistance to an imidazolinone herbicide was conferred through a precise single point mutation in the acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) gene, which catalyzes the metabolism of the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This key enzyme is highly important for the normal metabolic functions in a plant. Manipulation of the AHAS enzyme can prevent herbicidal inhibition while preserving its normal catalytic function. In this experiment, phenotypically normal plants from the converted chimeric oligonucleotides (C0) events were generated from resistant calli and grown to maturity. Leaf painting was used to confirm resistance phenotypes in C0 plants and also demonstrated segregation patterns in C1 progeny. Since the herbicide resistance gene is acquired by manipulation of the AHAS gene within the cell's normal metabolic genome, concerns that arise as part of a transgenic event are avoided. This new technique can be used to improve herbicide resistance for crops in the near future.

Speaker: Nicole Benson
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Comparison of Homeobox Genes Otlx2 and Barx1, and the Signaling of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Interactions Associated with Mammalian Odontogenesis

Abstract : All organ development in vertebrates is dependent upon the inductive interactions between epithelium and the adjacent mesenchyme, starting with the first stage of initiation through terminal differentiation of organ-specific cell types. Consequentially, the development of the tooth is one of the traditional model systems for studying the molecular mechanisms that control organ development because this signaling between epithelial and mesenchymal tissues also controls many aspects of odontogenesis. There are several growth factors and their receptors that are expressed in developing teeth, and the distribution patterns of some of them are in line with these signaling roles between the epithelial and mesenchymal tissues. Specific transcription factors are associated with tissue interactions as well as the expression of specific gene sequences in the developing epithelium and mesenchyme. In the present study, two such gene sequences, Otlx2 and Barx1, are compared in terms of embryonic day expression. Tissue samples were taken from CD-1 mouse mandibles and whole mount in situ hybridization was performed on both sets of RNA probes from Otlx2 and Barx1. Bead implantation, tissue recombination and organ culture techniques were used for the expression of the genes in question. The Otlx2 is a newly found member of a family of homeobox genes expressed in the oral epithelium beginning at embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5). Barx1 is also in a family of homeodomain-containing transcription factors found to be first expressed at E8.5, but its expression is maintained in the molar mesenchyme. When comparing the expression of Otlx2 with that of Barx1, the strictly complementary expression patterns in the epithelial and mesenchymal components respectively, suggests that both genes participate in the reciprocal tissue interaction which is characteristic of odontogenesis.

Speaker: Kimberly Cizmar
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: How Does the Misuse of Antibiotics in Livestock Feed
Affect Humans?

Abstract: Antibiotics have been used as additives in livestock feed for decades. They are used to protect the livestock from disease and to aid in growth production. One-quarter of the antibiotics dispensed in the United States are not even targeted at diagnosed disease. Instead, they are administered in sub-therapeutic doses to promote weight gain in apparently healthy livestock. Microbiological and clinical evidence is mounting that resistant bacteria may be passed from animals to humans, resulting in infections that are more difficult to treat. Samples of freshly slaughtered livestock fed with food mixed with antibiotics will be looked at to test for the prevalence of Salmonella. Salmonella is perhaps the foodborne bacteria most capable of zoonosis and will be used as the key indicator bacteria in this study. The presence and prevalence of resistant Salmonella on the livestock tissue will demonstrate the danger abuse of antibiotics in livestock feed has on human health.

Speaker: Adam M. Conley
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: The Regulation Of The Xenopus laevis Cyclin-Dependent Kinase
Inhibitor, P27xic1, During A DNA Replication Checkpoint

Abstract:The vertebrate cell cycle is positively regulated by cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs) and their associated cyclins and negatively regulated by CDK inhibitors. The Xenopus laevis CDK inhibitor, p27Xic1 (Xic1) is a member of the p21Cip1/p27Kip1 CDK inhibitor family. Xic1 preferentially inhibits CDK2-Cyclins E and A as well as the onset of DNA replication in Xenopus interphase egg extracts. Xic1 function is modulated during the cell cycle by ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis and phosphorylation. Upon damage to the genome or a block to DNA replication, checkpoint pathways are induced by ATM and ATR, members of a highly conserved family of PI-3 kinases. These kinases function to prevent the replication of damaged DNA and delay cell cycle progression until repair processes have been completed. Our results indicate that during the onset of DNA replication, Xic1 is degraded in a nuclei-dependent manner, prior to the switch to elongation. Interestingly, during the activation of a DNA replication checkpoint induced by the DNA polymerase inhibitor, aphidicolin, the proteolysis of Xic1 is inhibited. We hypothesized that Xic1 proteolysis may be negatively regulated during a DNA replication checkpoint by ATR phosphorylation of ATM/ATR consensus site, threonine 163, in Xic1. We performed site-directed mutagenesis of Xic1 to change amino acid 163 from threonine to alanine which cannot be phosphorylated or to glutamic acid which mimics constitutive phosphorylation. We then studied the proteolysis of the Xic1 mutants during a DNA replication checkpoint in Xenopus interphase extracts. Our results indicate that mutation of threonine 163 to alanine or glutamic acid has little effect on the proteolysis of Xic1 during the onset of DNA replication under non-checkpoint conditions. In contrast, mutation of threonine 163 to alanine significantly alters the proteolysis of Xic1 during a DNA replication checkpoint. The Xic1 T163A mutant was proteolyzed approximately 50% more efficiently than wildtype Xic1 in three independent experiments. Consistently, the Xic1 mutant T163E which mimics constitutive phosphorylation was proteolyzed to near wildtype levels. We confirmed the activation of the DNA replication checkpoint in our extracts by monitoring the phosphorylation of the ATR substrate, Chk1. Together, our results suggest that phosphorylation of threonine 163 of Xic1 is important for the negative regulation of Xic1 proteolysis during a DNA replication checkpoint and further suggests that Xic1 may be a direct substrate of ATR.

Speaker: Courtney Creek
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Progeria, Telomeres and Cell Aging

Abstract: Individuals with diseases associated with genetic mutations can often provide information about the function of normal, non-mutated genes. Progeria, caused by a spontaneous mutation in humans that leads to nightmarish deterioration during childhood, is one such case. Through the study of the mechanism and pathways of this particular premature aging syndrome, researchers have been able to identify pathways in the natural aging in uninfected individuals. One line of research, using fibroblasts from Hutchinson-Gilford progerics, indicates that initial telomere length is a factor affecting susceptibility. This seminar presentation will focus on the role that initial telomere length plays on somatic tissue, and its further effect upon germ-line tissue.

Speaker: Patty Diaz de Leon

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:00 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Can Mycobacteria tuberculosis Transfer Antibiotic Resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa?

Abstract: With the invention of antibiotic drugs, the medical system has been able to control bacterial infections. However, with the misuse/overuse of some antibiotics, many bacterial species have acquired mutations that have rendered them antibiotic resistant.

This research proposes to test the ability of drug-resistant Mycobacteria tuberculosis to transfer their resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, another bacterium that infests the upper respiratory system. The concern is that a multiple drug resistant strain of M. tuberculosis may be able to transfer said resistances to wild-type P. aeruginosa, thereby making pneumonia much more difficult and expensive to treat.

Speaker: Ryan E. Flores
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:40 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Antibacterial Overkill In Household Products: May Cause Problems in the Future.

Abstract: Antibiotics aren't the only antimicrobial substance being overexploited today. Triclosan, an antibacterial agent, is being incorporated into more and more commercial household products. Since the mid-1990's, products containing antibacterial agents has escalated from a few dozen to more than 700 today. Many scientists are concerned that these antibacterial agents will select bacteria resistant to them and cross-resistant to antibiotics. In my proposed experiment, I will use the filter paper disk method and evaluate the antibacterial (triclosan) effectiveness on inhibiting growth of S. aureus. The size of the zone around the filter paper disk will be measured and compared quantitatively against different concentrations of triclosan. I predict that resistance will increase as the antibacterial agents persist, especially at low levels of concentration. By the Darwinian selection process, bacteria will evolve and grow strong resistance to antibacterial agents and antibiotics the more we over use and abuse them.

Speaker: Charissa Grummon
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:05 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Presenilin-caused Inhibition of Notch Signaling and its Role in Alzheimer's Pathogenesis

Abstract: The bulk of Alzheimer's research and new treatments have been focused on prevention of amyloid beta-42 accumulation and senile plaque build-up. A mutation in the presenelin-1 gene is believed responsible for the cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein in to the toxic 42 amino acid fragment. However, the density of plaque formation does not correlate with the severity of dementia, and experimentation using AD mouse models has found age-independent cognitive disabilities in the absence of plaques. The presenilin protein is also believed to be involved in the proteolytic pathway of the Notch receptor protein, which is responsible for central nervous system development and neuron differentiation. It is suspected that these proteins are involved in the strengthening of synaptic connections and memory formation. The presenilin mutation associated with familial Alzheimer's reduces the ability of the Notch receptor protein to communicate with the nucleus and control downstream gene transcription. This may underlie the mechanism of neuron degeneration associated with certain unexplained aspects of dementia.

Speaker: Amanda Hayes
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Does Treating Influenza Fever with Aspirin Prolong Recovery?

Abstract: Many scientists believe that the body's ailments associated with illness are in fact evolved defenses brought about by natural selection (Shanahan, 1999). Darwinian medicine says that these discomforting conditions such as cough, runny nose, diarrhea vomiting, and fever are defenses that have evolved to protect us when we need them (Nesse, 1998). Scientists suggest that nasal mucous secretion associated with runny nose and cough could expel intruders while vomiting and diarrhea are believed to rid the body of infection and toxins (Nesse,1998). A Darwinian explanation of the fever is that the elevated body temperature facilitates the destruction of pathogens ( Shanahan, 1999). Researchers have discovered that when fever is prevented in lizards and rats infected with the flu virus, the subjects are at an increased risk of death (Kluger, 1996; Satinoff, 1998). These findings suggest that reducing fever in flu patients may prolong recovery. Significant studies on human subjects to test this theory are lacking. This presentation will include a proposal to test whether treating influenza fever with aspirin actually prolongs recovery. This study will require a sample size of one hundred persons, a double blind test, qualitative and quantitative data as well as elimination of subjectivity. The results will be measured with a two type T-test as well as Wilcoxon statistical analysis.

Speaker: Ginger S. Heaton
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Effects of UV Radiation on DNA Synthesis in Normal and Melanoma Xiphophorus Cell Lines

Abstract: A critical issue to understand when researching melanoma is the varying degrees of resistance cells have to DNA damaging agents. This damage-resistant phenotype that mammalian melanoma cells have shown is studied with a poeciliid fish model. This experiment sought to show that Xiphophorus melanoma cell lines exhibit higher resistance to UVB than Xiphophorus nonmelanoma cell lines. Subclones derived from a fish melanoma cell line, PSM-1, were established from an interspecific hybrid of Xiphophorus and compared to a nonmelanoma cell line, A-2, established from small pieces of late embryos of Xiphophorus. The Xiphophorus model was chosen for this experiment because not only does the PSM-1 show similarities to mammalian cell lines with respect to growth patterns and cytological characteristics, but also by choosing specific genotypes of Xiphophorus, melanomas of varying degrees can be produces. This experiment showed that Xiphophorus melanoma cell lines exhibited higher resistance to the DNA damaging agent UVB than Xiphophorus nonmelanoma cell lines. This supports the results found in the mammalian melanoma model. With the increase in occurrences of malignant melanoma and the lack of effective therapy for metastatic melanoma due to it's refractory nature toward therapy, better understanding of the cellular resistance to DNA damaging agents will help in the fight against melanoma.

Speaker: Laura Beth Hill
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:40 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: The Developmental Regulation of Bcl-2

Abstract : It is well established that the Bcl-2 family of proteins regulates cell death, or apoptosis. The family includes genes such as bax, bcl-xs, bad, and bak, which promote cell death, as well as anti-apoptotic genes such as bcl-2 and bcl-xl. The bcl-2 proto-oncogene is highly expressed during gastrulation, when apoptosis is vital to the developing central nervous system. The mechanisms of how bcl-2 functions are just beginning to emerge. Yang et al. proposed that cytochrome c release is blocked, thereby preventing apoptosis. Schendel et al. suggested that Bcl-2 proteins regulate apoptosis through channel formation. The related lines of research can be examined as a whole to understand how bcl-2 functions as an anti-apoptotic gene.

Speaker: April C. Lohmann
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:20 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease and its Prevalance in Certain Ethnic Populations

Abstract: Cretuzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) has been found to have a significantly high presence in certain ethnic populations, specifically Libyan Jews. A germline mutation on the prion protein (PrP) gene located on chromosome 20, either by point mutation at codon 200 (lysine for glutamine) or by a 144 base pair insertion located variably between codons 51 through 91, are the known causes for familial forms of CJD. These mutations are found in all affected individuals. The existence of a polymorphism at codon 129, coding for methionine or valine, and the subsequent higher incidence of Met129 suggests that an individual, probably homozygous for Met129, may be the source of the codon 200 mutation. The evidence suggests the codon 200 mutation in Libyan Jews ocurred in an isolated pedigree, probably in one individual who was homozygous for Met129, and historical factors caused dispersion of CJD to many countries: Chile, Slovakia and Czechoslovakia.

Speaker: Nancy Macias
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: The Influence Of Fire On Subsequent Seedling Establishment Of Gaillardia Pulchella

Abstract: Gaillardia pulchella (Firewheel or Indian Blanket) is a common annual forb distributed throughout the plains of Central Texas. It vigorously establishes itself in dense populations in disturbed areas throughout its range. Indeed, the data collected in this study show that its abundance and cover in disturbed (mowed) areas is higher than in undisturbed areas that are otherwise similar. However, casual observation suggests that G. pulchella is not as abundant in areas disturbed by fire as in areas disturbed by mowing or clearing. This paper reports that results of a study conducted the fall of 2001, testing for the effects of fore on G. pulchella's abundance and cover, and to test for a direct causative role of ash in inhibiting the seedling establishment of G. pulchella.

Speaker: Lydia J. Morgan
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:05 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Prader-Willi Syndrome

Abstract: Prader-Willi Syndrome is a complex developmental and neurobehavioral disorder arising through the loss of expression of paternal derived alleles. Deletion and other abnormalities of human chromosome 15q11-q13 are associated with the disorder. In this presentation, the characteristics and the genetic mechanisms associated with PWS will be explained. In addition, three key lines of research will be explored and their results compared. The specific causes of PWS and possibilities for further research and treatments will also be discussed.

Speaker: Bernardo Niño.
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:25 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Study of the Mating System Bembecinus neglectus (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae)

Abstract: The male mating strategy in Bembecinus neglectus is best described as "scramble competition polygyny", whereby males compete to inseminate newly eclosed/virgin females. Males patrol the emergence area and also nearby cedar trees. Upon emergence, newly eclosed females were quickly surrounded by patrolling males, and thus mating balls are formed. Analysis of variance showed that both years the males patrolling the emergence area were significantly larger than those males patrolling the cedar trees. Further, males that extracted females out of the mating balls were significantly larger than all other males. Interestingly males differed significantly in size between the years.

Speaker: Angelina R. Ozuna
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:25 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Angelman's Syndrome

Abstract: Angelman's Syndrome (AS) is a neurological disorder that is mapped to chromosome 15q11-q13. It has distinguishable phenotypes that are caused by five different genetic malfunctions and affect about 1 in 15,000 births worldwide. It occurs sporadically and does not display ethnic selectivity. There are four major tests used to determine whether a child is positive for AS. One is used specifically to distinguish AS from its' sister imprinted disorder Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Both AS and PWS result from similar genetic malfunctions on the same region of the proximal long arm of chromosome 15. However, PWS is a deletion of the paternal multigenic disorder that is due to a loss of paternally expressed genes. AS, on the other hand, deals with a single gene (UBE3A) mutation on the maternal chromosome. In 1998, an experiment was conducted to study UBE3A imprinting in the brain. It illustrated the genetics that underlie the distinction between AS and PWS. Presently, one other gene is suspected in causing the deletion class of AS. However, it is not considered to be the main cause. UBE3A's role in causing mutations in the imprinting center (IC) is present in all AS genetic classes. Researchers acknowledge that other gene(s) may exist and hope to attain a complete understanding of AS with the advancement of modern technology.

Speaker: David Pattillo
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Allan Hook

Title: Can Differing Transmission Rates Change Pathogen Virulence?

Abstract: Virulence is the degree of harm a pathogen inflicts on its host. For the past hundred years, old wisdom believed disease-causing pathogens evolve to become benign over time. This naïve view of the relationship between host and parasite predicts a world growing toward greater cooperation. However, it has been hypothesized that the transmission mode of a parasite and the density of potential hosts determines the degree of virulence. The trade-off hypothesis assumes that when a pathogen reproduces, it has to do some harm to the host. The pathogen will only harm the host as long as it does not decrease its probability of transmission. If transmission of the pathogen becomes less dependent on the health of the host, then Darwinian Medicine predicts that selection will favor a more virulent parasite. Research is proposed that would test the degree of virulence in an in-vitro setting using Staphlococcus areus, which is a common human bacterium. Clones of the bacteria will be isolated and used so both experimental and control groups will start with the exact degree of virulence. Transmission rate of the bacteria between fixed amounts of cell cultures will be the independent variable. The experimental group will be exposed to 150% more transmissions within the given experimental timeframe. After 20 days of differing transmission rates, the virulence of the bacterias will be tested. We would hypothesize that an increase in transmission rates would select for a more virulent strain of Staphlococcus areus. This increase in virulence would support the alternative hypothesis that higher transmission rates is linked to an increase in virulence.

Speaker: Jennifer Suarez
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. William Quinn

Title: Mutation of Homeobox Genes Lhx8 and Msx1 and the Development of Cleft Palate

Abstract: A common birth defect in both humans and animals is the cleft palate. About 1 in every 1000 live human births results in this common malformation (Pezzetti et al. 1998). To determine the consequences of this deficiency, a study prepared mice lacking Lhx8 and Msx1 function. In the analysis of the mutant mice, the genes display a crucial role in palatogenesis. All Msx1 and Lhx8 homozygotes mutant mice expressed a cleft palate. It appears that Lhx8 and Msx1 genes are both expressed in the mesenchyme of the mouse palatal structures throughout their development . Furthermore, Msx1 and Lhx8 genes both play a critical role in mediating mesenchymal interactions during craniofacial bone development. Since the mutant homozygote phenotype is similar to human cleft palate, the cleft palate phenotype observed in Msx1 and Lhx8 mutant mice suggests that these genes are candidates for cleft palate in humans.

Speaker: Shelly Sullivan
Candidate for a Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 300

Supervisor: Dr. Fidelma O'Leary

Title: Environmental Stress Interferes with the Acquisition of Long-term Memory for Sensitization in Aplysia californica.

Abstract: Exposure to environmental stresses has many effects on biological organisms. Traumatic stress has been shown to have long-term effects on the structure and function of the human brain (Bremner, 1999). More specifically, patients have exhibited damage to hippocampal tissue, accompanied by memory deficits. However, stress has not been shown to be the causative factor in memory deficits. Therefore, we examined the effects of stress on the acquisition of memory.
Aplysia californica were exposed to a long-term sensitization training protocol in the presence or absence of an environmental stress. The stress was an increase in the salt concentration of the surrounding water. Animals were tested for duration of tail withdrawal response twenty minutes prior to training and twenty-four hours following training. Animals trained in a stressful environment did not appear to have learned from the training. In contrast, animals trained in a stress free environment exhibited a significant increase in tail withdrawal response duration twenty-four hours after sensitization training (two-sample t-test, P=0.016). These data suggest that stress can block the acquisition of long-term memory in Aplysia.

Speaker: Lucinda Trippe
Candidate for a Bachelor of Science in Biology

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 301

Supervisor: Dr. Al lan Hook

Title: A Test of Muller's Ratchet: Analysis of Ebola Virus Fitness

Abstract: RNA viruses evolve rapidly as a consequence of their high mutation rates. Through the application of Darwinian Medicine, I will evaluate the evolutionary behavior of the Ebola Virus, a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus that is a member of the family Filoviridae. To test the hypothesis of Muller's Ratchet the transmission methods of Ebola will be manipulated as follows: a genetic bottlenecking environment will be created by culture treatment of a low virion concentration, and also a non-restricted environment will be established by treatment of a high virion concentration. I expect to observe decreased Ebola fitness in the low virion treatment based on Muller's Ratchet Theory in contrast to increased Ebola fitness in the high virion treatment. Analysis of Ebola's fitness and virulence will be achieved by a relative fitness assay. This will allow comparison between the two treatments for the affects of genetic drift and selection on the fitnesses of the two viron populations.

Computer Science and Computer Information Science Abstracts

Speaker: Mark E. Adams
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:20 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Computers Making Ethical Decisions (a.k.a. "Ethicnology")

Abstract: This study investigates the ability of computers to "make" ethical decisions via the inputs of the programmer. The project focuses on a Business Ethics case where an individual is forced to choose whether she should compromise her beliefs to support her family, or if she should avoid what she considers unsavory business practices on the basis of her values. Using an ethical decision making software package (Ethos by Taknosys), the case facts common to both viewpoints were developed. Then, an attempt was made to prove that both of the divergent viewpoints could be justified, depending on the values and assumptions that were used. Using a variety of ethical tests provided by the software package, a network of judgements, assumptions, and rationalizations formed justifications for each divergent course of action. The successful validation of both viewpoints beckons consideration of the 'authority' that computer-assisted decision making can imply.

Speaker: Tawfeeq Alqattan
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:50 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 306

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: Retool Retail Application

Abstract: China Products Company, a retailer of imported products with one store, was wasting time using paper records to track sales, inventory, and customers. Retool, a retail application, replace the paper records, saves time, and increases accuracy. Retool utilizes VB and an Access database. The Retool application provides several functions, it records products being purchased, totals the sales amount, and records the payment transaction. Also, it includes: an inventory database, customer database, prints sales and customer reports. Finally, all transactions can be updated any time. Retool passed 100 percent of its tests. After a small amount of training, users were able to easily use the program.

Speaker: Cindy Beltrán
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:10 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 306

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Comparative Analysis of Two Robotic Languages

Abstract: The RCX programmable brick is used to control LEGO Mindstorms Robots. The default programming environment for the brick is a limited graphical user interface. As an alternative, a considerable number of programming environments and firmware are available to enhance the performance of a robot's given set of instructions.
This research project compares two of the programming environments: NQC and ROBOLAB. The objective was to analyze the execution of a specific set of ten tasks implemented by each language. The length of the byte code size and performance time of the same set of tasks in NQC and ROBOLAB were examined. The results revealed which programming language used less byte code for the specific set of ten tasks.

Speaker: Chris James Carter
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Location: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn L. Fox

Title: PDA Waiting Table Application

Abstract: Earl Campbell's Restaurant is a traditional BBQ restaurant located in Austin, Texas. The wait staff at Earl Campbell's Restaurant is responsible for making sure that a guest's dining experience meets his or her expectation. The wait staff relay orders to the kitchen, serve the ordered items, and close sales on open tables. The current system is achieved by the waiter/waitress handwriting the order on a piece of paper and then entering the order into the computer. The order is printed in the kitchen. While there is some automation in the current system, much of it is manual. The new system uses a Personal Digital Assistant application to display a graphical user interface (GUI) listing all the menu items, including daily specials, orders are stored in a database, food and beverage inventory is updated and the server closes out a table by selecting a payment type. The Personal Digital Assistant waiting table system passed all tests on the first attempt, which verified that the functionality of the system was complete. Earl Campbell's Restaurant plans to use this system in the future.

Speaker: Kassidy Patrick Clark
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Ms Evelyn L. Fox

Title: An Experimental Investigation of the Diameter of the Internet

Abstract: In 1999, a group of researchers in the Department of Physics at the University of Notre Dame conducted an investigation into the size and growth of the Internet. Using a recent variation of graph theory, they found that randomly chosen nodes are an average of 19 hops away from each other. This distance between nodes can also be referred to as the diameter of the Internet.
This project supports this hypothesis by providing hard data showing the distances across the Internet to randomly chosen nodes around the world. Not only does this data support their original hypothesis, but it also gives an indication of how fast and how evenly structured the Internet has grown in the last couple of years. After running tests measuring these distances, I found that the average diameter to be between 17.475 and 18.886.

Speaker: Jerry L. Clement
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:20 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: OBE Data Entry Application

Abstract: Quality! What is your definition of quality? At Dell Computer Corporation, quality is defined through the Customer Experience. In the factory, quality is a serious matter. OBE is an audit process that develops, tracks, and analyzes customer experience data.
The web-based application used to track audit data failed to meet the needs of the audit department. The developer of the application failed to document or preserve the source code. In order to make improvements to the application it was necessary to reengineer a new application.
The Software Engineering process was used to develop and document requirements. Client interviews were used to evaluate the current application's strengths and weaknesses. Once the requirements were identified the Design Phase was used to develop how the new application would be implemented. Minimum requirements were identified and prioritized to insure the project would be developed on time. Using Active Server Pages and an Oracle database, a Web-Based Data Entry Application was developed that meets the current and future needs of the OBE team. The new application improves the accuracy of the collected data and users overwhelmingly prefer the new user interface.

Speaker: Torrey Eltiste
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:25 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Local System Course Player - Educational Delivery Tool

Abstract: 360training.com provides online education courses to many different Industries including Real Estate, Alcohol Seller/Server, Rent-to-own and through a navigatable course player. Many students access courses via dial-up modem connections. Most courses require about 15 hours to complete leaving the student with no option but to tie up their phone line while finishing their course work.
Local system course player (LSCP) is a navigatable course player residing on a CD-ROM that will allow students to take courses "off-line", cutting down connect time by 95%.
The interactive LSCP was developed using Visual Basic and Macromedia Flash Action Scripting. To ensure functionality across all Microsoft Operating Systems, an extensive testing plan was created and executed. Beta copies were also released to different test markets to capture possible issues. Benefits of this system allow 360training to gain market share by reaching out to students not considering online education. The LSCP is currently under its second beta release and is due to be released April 2002.

Speaker: Carlos M. Flores
Candidate for Bachelor of Computer Information System

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn Fox

Title: Art List Database Project

Abstract: My client is Pat Taylor, head of St. Edward's University Art Department. This department has images on slides, in different textbooks and in different magazines. The Art List Database organizes all images in the Art laboratory. This database project is an application designed to assist the end user. This application allows the end user the ability to query the database by artist, medium, subject, title and date. The Art List Database displays the results of the query. The end user can scroll though the results and choose the image he or she would like to view. The Art List Database displays the image and all the data related to that image.

Speaker: Raul P. Flores
Candidate for a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 6:05 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Costing Performance Metrics of Accessible Web Browsers

Abstract: Accessible web browsers are Internet software tools that visually impaired surfers can use to facilitate independent exploration of web documents. These tools provide conversion of web-based graphics, objects, animation, frames, forms and text, to comprehensible speech output for disabled users. Accessible browsing tools ease navigation of these challenging web elements that would otherwise hamper disabled users access of the World Wide Web.
The three accessible web browsers examined in this study were Job Access for Windows Screen reader 3.7, IBM Home Page reader 3.0, and SimplyWeb 2000. Each product utilizes techniques that attempt to accurately examine, interpret, translate and audibly output each respective Internet environment's textual and visual elements in a clear format. However, individual browser approaches vary with respect to performance accuracy.
In order to compare the accessible web browsers a tailored value scale was used to quantify percentage differentiations relating to a performance accuracy metric. The accessible browsers were tested in a suitable setting with sighted and non-sighted users to assess their accuracy. Test results have revealed an overall advantage in the use of the IBM product.

Name: Jonathan S. Francis
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 306

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: A Generated Code Based Comparison of Three WYSIWYG HTML Editors

Abstract: WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) editors are used to create HTML code, graphically, without a need to learn the HTML programming language. This research project evaluated three different HTML editors, Netscape Composer 6.1, Macromedia Dreamweaver 4.0, and Microsoft FrontPage 2000, in order to determine the differences in the HTML code they create. They were evaluated based on the following criteria; the size of file created, the number of HTML tags used, the number of HTML lines created, the instances of non-standards compliant errors, and the ability to handle user errors without creating extraneous code. The result of this project determined that Netscape Composer is the most compliant software package of the three evaluated, while using more lines of code and more tags to create its files, resulting in larger file sizes. The two other software packages did a better job of recovering from user errors and corrections without leaving extraneous data.

Speaker: Abraham Gandara
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:25 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 304

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Media Services Equipment Manager

Abstract: Currently the Media Services Office at St. Edward's University manages hundreds of pieces of multimedia equipment. Tasks include equipment installation, maintenance, loans, and deliveries. These transactions and inventory records are written manually, or kept as electronic spreadsheets, which is both cumbersome and inefficient.
The Media Services Equipment Manager (MSEM) on-line database provides Media Services employees the flexibility of administering equipment from any location. This database holds all information necessary for proper inventory checks, and maintenance. The equipment transactions, such as deliveries and rentals, will also be tracked through the database.
Developed using a Microsoft Access database and a Cold Fusion web application interface, the Media Services Equipment Manger provides efficient electronic storage for all equipment data. The web interface allows staff to access the equipment data from any networked computer using an SEU supported browser.
With extensive testing throughout the developmental process, quality control checks were implemented into the input pages to improve efficiency. There were 5 test runs on a total set of 308 different test cases. With corrections made after the first four runs, the quality improved from 292 tests passed to 308 tests passed.
Media Services is currently populating the database, and are pleased with the efficiency.

Speaker: Patrick K. Hayes
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:10 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn Fox

Title: Client Contact Information Project

Abstract: MAXIMUS provides a wide range of program management, information technology, and consulting services to government agencies throughout the world. One of the clients of MAXIMUS is the State of Texas. A contract was awarded to MAXIMUS to provide service to keep track of the Medicaid population that contacts MAXIMUS for children's services. This project will be used by MAXIMUS and the State of Texas.
The application captures information about contact made from the outside coming to MAXIMUS and from inside going out. The application will also be able to report on the data that is captured in terms of reports and comma-delimited files. The application has a login security component for data protection. The application is written in MS-ACCESS. The project entailed reverse engineering, designing, coding testing, debugging and documenting of a database application. The general purpose of this project is to reengineer an existing database application, which the source code no longer exists, using more modernized functions and techniques of data manipulation. The enhancements give the users better tools for data entry and data reporting.

Speaker: Christopher Fred Herbig
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 5:25 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Genetic Algorithms vs. A Greedy Algorithm in the Optimization of Course Scheduling

Abstract: Genetic algorithms are modeled after natural genetics and inherit most of the properties that are intrinsic to natural genetics. Some the genetic operators are mutation, crossover, and selection. The basic data structures are chromosomes, which contain genes which also contain alleles. Genetic algorithms work by simultaneously examining multiple solutions in a search space.
With the rise and refinement of genetic algorithms comes the idea that they may be used to solve problems and rival the standard methods used to solve those problems. Is it possible to schedule classes without any duplicate courses or professor conflicts using genetic algorithms? The standard method has been to use a greedy algorithm. For forty-nine courses, do the genetic algorithms produce results faster than the greedy algorithm if the number of professors teaching multiple classes and the number of multiple classes increase? Analysis shows that the algorithms have different run times for producing a schedule. Further analysis shows that the modified genetics algorithm and the greedy algorithm have no significant difference in run times.

Name: Simon Hirschauer
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Dynamic Particle System Using Vertex Shaders

Abstract: In computer game development particle systems are widely used to produce special effects. A particle system can be used to simulate effects like rain, dust, snow, sparks and other particle based effects. The particles are simulated by triangles which move in 3D space. The recent support of vertex shaders by graphics chip manufacturers gives developers a tool to increase the efficiency and quality of particle systems. In a traditional particle system all calculations for movement and appearance of the particles are performed on the host CPU. Vertex shaders allow the developer to transfer those calculations onto the graphics chip freeing valuable CPU time. A test application was developed to investigate the benefits of a shader based particle system. It was clearly shown that vertex shaders can improve execution speed and efficiency, however it became evident that due to the limited features of vertex shaders a combination of traditional and new techniques is required.

Speaker: Dale L. Houghton
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 304

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: Phone-A-Thon's Original Software Technology (POST)

Abstract: Legal Aid of Central Texas (LACT) and Volunteer Legal Services (VLS) are non-profit legal assistance groups that administer Phone-A-Thon, an annual fundraising event to benefit clients. Attorneys volunteer time, coordinating with the staffs of LACT and VLS, to raise pledge commitments from local area attorneys. In the past, coordination of information was done largely through manual collation of records and correspondence.
Phone-A-Thon's Original Software Technology (POST) is a web-based application that manages pledges, payments, contributors, volunteers, and administration. Features are accessed via two modes: user and administration. User mode provides a detailed view of each contributor record and the corresponding pledge information with mechanisms for indexing, searching, or updating records. Administration mode adopts the user interface extending its functionality with capabilities for adding records, deleting records and applying payments. Additional interfaces allow administrators to generate quick reports, edit site content, generate pledge correspondence, edit in list view and manage authentication privileges.
The underlying database is Microsoft Access providing both versatility and portability as well as fulfilling the data structure requirements. Technologies used include JavaScript for client-side functions and VBScript in Active Server Pages (ASP's) for dynamically interpreting page content. The testing is complete and the product meets all requirements.

Speaker: Lori J. Johnson
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 306

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Web-based Validation

Abstract: This research project addresses the validation of data entered via a Web graphical user interface. Business rules used to assist in the validation are a subset of rules being implemented in a related work project. Two options, form and field, were investigated to support Web-based data entry. Field Entry Validation occurs when a user typed data into a field's text box and pressed the tab key. Form Validation occurs when the user entered the entire criterion and selected the Insert button. In addition, Field Entry Validation and Form Validation instantiate the same JavaScripts during data validation, the look-and-feel of each page is the same and the specific type of validation is transparent to the user. The Web-based Validation project proved that there is a difference between Field Entry Validation and Form Validation. Results indicate that the number of errors during Form Validation is fewer than Field Entry Validation.

Speaker: Ashwini Kumar
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Web Based Order Management System

Abstract: Kread is an e-commerce company that sells merchandize such as T-shirts, caps, pens, pencil, etc. to state and public school libraries, which features themes to promote kids to read. Manual labor is involved in sending invoices to the warehouse, making phone calls to the warehouse to check when an order had been shipped, and answering phone calls from customers who want to check their order status. KSOFT, a web-based application provides secure access to the warehouse to print invoices from the web, allows the warehouse to enter shipping information into the database, and allows customers to check their order status. KSOFT uses MS-Access 97 as the back-end, Internet Explorer and Netscape as possible front-end. Frontpage2000 was used to build the web interfaces. KSOFT's functions include connecting the database to Data Source Name (DSN), publishing the database onto the server, creating search forms, creating queries using SQL along with VBScript and generation of ASP pages together which enables KSOFT to read from and write into a database. Functional testing of KSOFT showed that authorized user access, and accuracy and reliability of the reports and updates function successfully.

Speaker: Heoi-Jin (Lilly) Lim
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Online Quiz Tracking System (OQTS)

Abstract: Professors in the traditional classes at St. Edward's University (SEU) currently evaluate students' quizzes manually, a process that consumes time and is prone to error. The Online Quiz Tracking System (OQTS) simplifies quiz-generation, quiz-taking, and quiz-grading using a web browser interface. An administrative mode adds or deletes the userID and password for professors and students. In the teacher mode, it allows or facilitates entry of multiple choice or true/false problems for quizzes as well as the correct answers. It records students' answers and provides the statistical information on students' performance. In the student mode, students logon to take quizzes and they immediately see their scores. OQTS also provides students and professors the ability to change existing passwords and to retrieve forgotten passwords through their SEU acad accounts. OQTS is designed using JavaScript to validate the form verifications, Macromedia ColdFusion Studio 4.5 and Macromedia DreamWeaver UltraDev 4 to design the interface, and Microsoft Access to store the data. It has been tested with Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer. It is currently hosted on a ColdFusion Server 5.0 running on Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS). Currently OQTS is under evaluation by SEU's IT department for future use in classes.

Speaker: Omar Lopez
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 304

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Writing Center Scheduler

Abstract: The Writing Center, established by the School of Humanities for the St. Edward's University community, offers students free one-on-one consultation with an experienced writing instructor. To make an appointment at the Writing Center the student must either email the Writing Center or physically go to the Writing Center and sign in on the sign in sheet. Visiting the Writing Center can be inconvenient and in some cases not possible. While email can be more convenient, agreeing on a specific date and time can be very inefficient. To make appointments both convenient and efficient the online Writing Center Scheduler was created. Students may now register from any computer with Internet access. The Scheduler contains features such as: confirmation emails, a "My Schedule" page to display all scheduled appointments, and an option to cancel appointments. An administrative page was created to help schedule tutors, keep track of appointments, and generate statistics. The Scheduler was written in Cold Fusion and uses a Microsoft Access database as the back end. The Scheduler was deployed on September 24, 2001 and currently 584 students have made appointments.

Speaker: Wendell Mayes, Jr.
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:50 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn L. Fox

Title: A Jim Dandy Portfolio Manager

Abstract: The Jim Dandy Portfolio Manager is a computer?based investment accounting system. The program keeps detailed records of purchases, sales, income, gains, prices, and values of any number of securities in any number of different portfolios. In addition to record keeping, the program also provides investors a means of easily analyzing the performance of all investments in the portfolios. The program displays and prints reports on individual security investments and on holdings in portfolios. Investors can choose the items to include on portfolio reports from 28 different parameters. The parameters include such items as Value, Net Cost, Amount and Percentage of Short Term and Total Gain or Loss, Net Return for different intervals of time, Net Amount Invested, Number of Shares, Price per Share, etc. Portfolio reports can be sorted in 28 different ways. Individual holdings can be compared to any holding designated by the Investor as a Benchmark. Portfolios can be combined in up to 26 different groups, and reports can be generated for either individual portfolios or portfolio groups. Reports can also be displayed and printed for individual fund families, brokers, exchanges, and security types. The Jim Dandy Portfolio Manager program has been in use for several years.

Speaker: Thomas Melton
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: CIM Troubleshooting Guide

Abstract: Currently, troubleshooting documentation for Motorola's Dan Noble Center (DNC) Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) group consists of several Microsoft Office documents located on Motorola's internal network server. These documents provide little assistance in troubleshooting issues because they are not well maintained and are difficult to locate. A web site was developed using Active Server Pages coded in HTML, VBScript, and SQL, which interacts with a Microsoft Access database. This web site, which can be accessed on Motorola's Intranet, provides a central location that allows technicians to quickly search the database for known error messages and solutions. The site also provides a way to easily add, modify, or remove troubleshooting messages as needed. An added feature to the site is a fully maintainable contact list of all DNC CIM administrators. To verify all functional requirements were met the site was tested simulating expected usage by technicians.

Speaker: Michael Moore
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: LEGO Mindstorms: Comparison of High Level Languages

Abstract: A robotic device was used as the platform for comparing two programming languages. This offered methodology and metrics to quantify critical responses by comparing high-level languages in a Lego Mindstorms 1.5 robotic system. Not Quite C (NQC) and RCX were used to determine if performance and accuracy were affected. It was hypothesized that NQC would produce more favorable results than RCX in terms of the time required to navigate a line by light sensor and repeatability in response to a touch sensor.
Thirty trials were performed with NQC and RCX code alternately controlling the robot by straddling the black/white border. NQC yielded 17% improvement in travel time. This was repeated with the robot backing into a wall to activate a touch sensor, reversing for 0.3 seconds before stopping. NQC yielded 66% less variability in stopping distance.
The conclusion is that compared to RCX, the NQC source code produces more efficient object code that can be scanned and executed at a faster rate.

Speaker: Cetchren Nealy
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 4:45 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. John Camden

Title: Client Tracking System

Abstract: My client is Kameron Johnson, Lead Defender of the Travis County Juvenile Public Defender's Office (TCJPD). The TCJPD provides legal defense to indigent juveniles between the ages of 10 and 16. Currently, the TCJPD does not have an automated means to track its clients, caseload, or court-hearing schedule. This lack of automation creates a lengthy and error-prone data collection process, as well as difficult reporting capabilities. The Client Tracking System uses a relational database coupled with a graphical user interface to provide accurate data collection and consistent reporting. Since the TCJPD receives its funding based on projected caseload, the Client Tracking System's reporting functions will ensure that the department receives the funding it needs in order to protect the rights of the juveniles it represents.

Speaker: Jerrod Newberry
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:20 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 306

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Perl vs. Tcl

Abstract: This project consists of a comparison of two scripting languages, Perl and Tcl. All of the data collected was based on the following metrics. Perl and Tcl were both tested on response times and accuracy while reading from text files. They were also tested on response times and accuracy while writing to text files. Running a recursive factorial algorithm, and comparing the output tested the math modules in both languages. The speed of both languages was obtained while computing the lengths of numerous strings. Both, Perl and Tcl's syntax were compared on their ease of use. Overall, Perl proved to be a more efficient scripting language.

Speaker: David Ornelas
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:40 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Maverick TAAS Social Studies Practice

Abstract: The Texas Assessment of Academic Skills (TAAS) is a tool used to measure the statewide curriculum in reading and mathematics at grades 3 through 8, and at the exit level; in writing at grades 4, 8, and the exit level; and in science and social studies at grade 8. Satisfactory performance on the TAAS exit level is a prerequisite to a high school diploma. My client, Anabel Garza, assistant principal at Mendez Middle School, saw a need to help eighth grade students raise their scores on the social studies portion of the TAAS.
Through several consultations with my client and social studies teachers at Mendez Middle School, I sought to create an interactive tool that would give students realistic practice for the TAAS. This was accomplished by using state furnished TAAS practice exams, and a graphical interface that incorporates sound and images to help the students better comprehend the questions asked.
Upon implementation, in the spring 2002 semester, this application provided Anabel Garza and Mendez Middle School a new tool to help students prepare for the Social Studies TAAS Test. Students are now able to practice for the TAAS at their own pace and receive instant feedback on their progress.

Speaker: Michael Overway
Candidate for Bachelors of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:10 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: MOS11 Maintenance Passdown Log

Abstract: Motorola MOS11 is a semiconductor manufacturing facility that has Probe as one of the last processes. The Probe maintenance group is responsible for maintenance of the test systems and tools used. Often, maintenance cannot be completed during a single shift so a method of passing information from different shifts is necessary. To facilitate effective communication between the work shifts, a passdown log application was created, allowing the maintenance team to keep track of work in progress and completed. It is an overhaul of a system originally designed as a temporary solution allowing the maintenance group more flexibility in creating reports. By inputting different parameters, Microsoft Word documents display saved database records or create End of Week reports. This application has utility functions included allowing supervisors to update database tables as equipment or personnel changes occur. The passdown log was developed using Microsoft Visual Basic 6.0 to interact with a Microsoft Access database and to be implemented over a Windows NT network. The application developer used several test cases to verify that report generation, new record entry, and utility functions ran properly. Currently, the application is installed at MOS11 for further client evaluation.

Speaker: Dory Parisi
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. James McGuffee

Title: An Interactive Ethics Game

Abstract: Have you ever had a dream that your professors told you to play a video game instead of doing homework problems? This software, developed for The Center for Ethics and Leadership at St. Edwards University, can help make that dream a reality. The Center provides support and training for the continued development of faculty, staff, and students in ethical reasoning and moral decision-making. It was desired to find a way of making the process of learning ethics and studying Philosophy less intimidating to people who have grown up with computers instead of Plato, and hope to encourage them to explore the subjects in more depth by making it fun. The software developed to meet this need is an interactive ethics game, "Ethical Pursuit".
The player makes their way through a mansion via rooms of differing themes, and answers questions pertaining to ethical principles and philosophers in order to win the game. A 3-D game world was built through the use of texture mapping, different camera viewpoints, and collision detection. It was developed and implemented using Microsoft Visual C++ and OpenGL. Functional testing was performed by members of The Center for Ethics, students and professors. The game is currently being customized to serve different instructors pedagogical needs. It will be distributed for use in the classroom starting with the 2002 fall semester.

Speaker: Joe Pingtella
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: ipMonitor Network Monitoring Installation and Configuration

Abstract: In the highly competitive Semiconductor industry, Motorola has deemed it necessary for 99.999% uptime on critical business servers. With the requirements of five nines the Austin Regional Server Team is tasked with 24/7 server support. The Austin Regional Server Team needs access to critical server information at any given time. Currently the regional server team does not have a standardized method for collecting critical information on the supported servers. Other monitoring applications where evaluated by Joseph Pingtella such as WhatsUpGold and Tivoli. ipMonitor was selected and implemented due to cost of application and software modification flexibility. The software was installed, configured and white box tested on a Dell 4350 Power Edge server utilizing Windows 2000 Server. The ipMonitor software and system will monitor 300+ servers located at three different sites within the Austin Region. IpMonitor is a web based application that is accessible only on Motorola's internal network. The application is secured by the Motorola OneIT password authentication. Motorola awarded Joseph Pingtella a $500.00 monetary performance award, for successful implementation, configuration and modification of the monitoring software. The success of this monitoring too has provided critical information to the Austin Region IT department.

Speaker: Gonzalo Ramirez
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 6:05 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Comparing Browsers' Conformance of HTML Standards

Abstract: The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is the governing body guiding the World Wide Web (WWW) to its full potential by developing and standardizing common protocols. Many large entities adopt W3C's efforts. Among such efforts is the standardization of the HyperText Markup Language (HTML). HTML is the standard publishing language used to create web pages. Ideally, if a web page is created with the W3C's HTML 4.01 recommendations in mind, it should be displayed the same no matter what browser is being used. However not all browsers are fully conformant to HTML standards.
For this research, a small collection of HTML pages were created and validated against W3C's HTML 4.01 recommendations to test three browsers' conformance of HTML standards. I anticipated Internet Explorer to be less conformant than Netscape and Opera. In addition, I theorized that none of the three browsers would be fully conformant.
My tests show Internet Explorer outperforms Netscape and Opera. Furthermore, Internet Explorer is more fully conformant whereas the other two browsers fall short in some of the areas tested.

Speaker: Marco A. Robledo
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:10 AM

Location: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Is the Implementation of SPC Software Warranted?

Abstract: Statistical Process Control (SPC) is used to improve manufacturing quality through the reduction of variance. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) uses SPC in its semiconductor operations to improve quality by reducing variance. An added benefit is better predictability, which equates to less rework of material and fewer mistakes. Other benefits include fewer delays in processing, faster cycle time, higher wafer yields, and better use of machines.
This research project used SPC PCIV (Personal Computer IV) to gather multiple manufacturing data points from a semiconductor wafer. The data points were then reviewed for variance and engineers were able assign a cause to each instance of variance and to try to reduce or eliminate that particular cause.
The results of this project show that by utilizing SPC PCIV, AMD is able to manufacture world-class microprocessors in a manner that is constantly improving quality and reducing variance.

Speaker: James Rossie
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:50 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: The N-Queens Problem - Genetic Algorithm vs. Recursive Algorithm

Abstract: The N-Queens problem is a traditional computer science problem where one places n number of queens on an n x n chess board so that no queen threatens another. The traditional solution taught to most computer science students is a recursive one. This project compared a recursive algorithm solution to a genetic algorithm one. A genetic algorithm operates by a biological "survival of the fittest" principle. Experiments indicate an inverse relationship in the effectiveness, based on time to complete one n-queens solution, of the two algorithms. For smaller n the recursive solution is very effective. However, for large n (n > 38) the genetic algorithm performed extremely well, providing a solution for 45 queens in only 50 seconds, while results with the recursive solution were unobtainable. These results indicate the possible usefulness of genetic algorithms in problems with very large search spaces.

Speaker: Chris Sanner
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Date: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn L. Fox

Title: Cisco Aironet Evaluation Project

Abstract: Sunset Direct is an outsourced IT and marketing solutions company that represents high tech companies such as Siebel and Cisco Systems. My client is Dowd McDonald, an Account Manager for Cisco Systems, which is a premier account at Sunset Direct.
Sunset Direct represents hardware solutions for Cisco Systems including a number of different routers and switches. Cisco allows customers to evaluate network equipment before purchasing. Cisco's Aironet Wireless LAN Solution is the product being evaluated in this project. This project solves a time management problem for the Sunset Direct's Aironet Representative. At this time, when a customer fills out and submits the web based product evaluation request form, the information is emailed to the Aironet Representative at Sunset Direct. This representative then enters the information manually into Sunset Direct's proprietary database. This process is tedious, time consuming, and non-productive. The solution I propose is to automate the evaluation entry process allowing the information to be fed directly into the database. This project also provides the MIS department an automated evaluation template and tool to use in the future for other product evaluations. Testing results have shown that the integrity of the database remains intact during updates and that the application meets the needs of the client.

Speaker: Jeffrey Jay Schindler
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 9:00 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: An Interactive Web-site for Distance Learning Students

Abstract: Austin Community College (ACC) has incorporated a distance learning curriculum for individuals in the greater Austin area. This curriculum is geared towards those who normally do not have the time to take college courses on campus. My client, Amardeep Kahlon, an Associate Professor for Computer Science and Computer Information Systems at ACC's Cypress Creek Campus, saw a need to improve and update her web-site to make it a more interactive and user friendly site for her distance learning students.
Through redesign, I sought to enhance the student's online learning experience. This was accomplished with online practice examinations, online quizzes, a bulletin board, an area for students to update personnel information, an area to request a meeting with the instructor or post their agreement and understanding of the syllabus, and a user interface to check their course grade reports.
Upon implementation, in the spring 2002 semester, the new web-site provided Armadeep Kahlon's distance learning students with an interactive course web-site that provides a more constructive learning environment. Students are now able to track their individual progress, seek assistance from the instructor or other students, and learn from the practice examinations and quizzes.

Speaker: Rebecca Shoher
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn L. Fox

Title: University Police Department Records Management

Abstract: The St. Edward's University (SEU) Police Department provides a safe and secure campus for members of the university community, emergency services, and needed community services while maintaining a well-trained and efficient work force. Currently, university police officers record information about their daily activities in an Excel spreadsheet and on paper forms. Some of this information is then transcribed into a Microsoft Access database. This method is time consuming and inefficient. The University Police Department Records Management database is created in Microsoft Access and can accept data, query the data, and generate reports. This application will allow the Police Officers to enter information directly into the database, eliminating a paper trail. The data entry forms are designed to be user friendly and perform checks for invalid data. The University Police Department Records Management database was tested for data entry validation, command and action button responses, and the accuracy of the queries and reports. The application passes with a 97% acceptance rate. Recommended future enhancements include putting the application online and creating more reports to analyze data.

Speaker: Penny Simoneau
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 304

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Compensation Calculator

Abstract: Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation (TG) provides services related to secondary education financial aid. It provides competitive benefits for its 500 employees; however, Human Resources (HR) doubts that many employees realize the costs incurred by TG for their feature-rich compensation package, which includes pension plan, medical and dental insurance, term life insurance, long-term disability, and tuition reimbursement. HR believes employees overlook benefits when considering total compensation, a concern that the Compensation Calculator addresses. Before, determining benefits usually required a one-on-one consultation with HR, which could take up to 30 minutes. But now, accessed via a web-based interface, the Compensation Calculator displays a comprehensive benefits report within seconds. It also features administrative screens to maintain variables used in the calculations. Since its development, several benefits have changed, but because the Compensation Calculator was programmed anticipating changes, all are accommodated except tuition reimbursement, which is prorated instead of 100%.
The Compensation Calculator is written in HTML and Cold Fusion 4.5 and uses SQL Server as a database. It has been thoroughly tested on a Windows platform using the Internet Explorer 5.5 browser. When deployed, it will reside on TG's intranet which runs Microsoft's Internet Information Services (IIS) 4.0 on Windows NT Server.

Speaker: Russell A. Sinclair
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:50 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. Richard Kopec

Title: Freedex - Freeware Indexing Software

Abstract: Many reference texts in libraries do not possess an index. While it is the job of the indexing librarian to generate such texts, the software is expensive and difficult to learn. Furthermore, many groups exist which perform research but do not have the resources to purchase indexing software. Freedex is an easy to use, freeware indexing tool that is used by the indexer to generate simply indexes or tables of contents for books. Freedex automatically sorts the index and checks spelling. Unlike other indexing software, Freedex includes the ability to merge multiple separate index files into a single document so that many people can work on indexing the same book. Most importantly, Freedex is provided free of charge to the user so that individuals need not spend large amounts of money to acquire a simple tool to generate indexes.
Freedex was developed in Visual Basic and vigorously tested using real book indexes and by using special cases to allow for the limits of the software's ability to be tested. Testing uncovered a number of functional bugs in the program which have been corrected.

Speaker: Emi Taniuchi
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 304

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: Comparison of Two Programming Languages Used to Create RCX Code

Abstract: The RCX programmable brick is used to control LEGO Mindstorms Robots. The default programming environment for the RCX programmable brick is a limited graphical user interface. As an alternative considerable number of programming environments and firmware are available to enhance the performance of a robot's given set of instructions.
This research project analyzes the execution of eleven tasks implemented with a touch sensor and a light sensor by ROBOLAB (a graphical programming environment) and Spirit.ocx with Visual Basic (a Windows-based programming environment). Distance error and completion time were the measurements used to determine performance. The comparable performance of the robot was observed in only four out of eleven tasks. Spirit.ocx produced less byte code size than ROBOLAB under those four tasks.

Speaker: Harry Ullmann
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 205

Supervisor: Dr. Richard L. Kopec

Title: Requisite Status

Abstract: In the course of developing IBM's AIX operating system (AIX is IBM's UNIX based operating system.) and its many AIX based applications, literally millions of lines of code are written and stored. Many files containing some of this code are shared among several, if not many, different executable files and even different products. In the process of maintaining this code, even a single change in one file can result in the requirement to recompile hundreds of affected files. A very well defined process has been created to ensure each code change is tested and verified. Executing this process, however, can become very laborious and tedious. A PERL script program, Requisite Status, was created to simplify part of this process, saving time and eliminating data entry errors.
Requisite Status incorporates several complex steps in the process into a short, guided routine. After verifying proper steps have already been executed, it displays data an approver requires to make a decision and prompts for an answer.
Each module of Requisite Status was unit tested using dummy input files, manually analyzing specific output. Usage over a six-month period has resulted in zero errors.

Speaker: Claudia G. Valle
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 11:50 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Ms. Evelyn L. Fox

Title: Maple Cobweb: Graphical Analysis through the Iteration of Mathematical Equations

Abstract: Professor David Naples, with the St. Edward's University (SEU) Department of Mathematics, expressed a need for a Maple conversion of a DOS program that would iterate mathematical functions and plot each iteration. (Maple is a comprehensive computer system for advanced mathematics.) The program would have the ability to change the value of each parameter. This program would benefit SEU students enrolled in the differential equations class and students performing undergraduate research.
The new Maple program allows the user to enter a mathematical function, an initial seed, and the domain and range of the plot grid. The program gives the first iteration Cartesian points and plots and asks the user whether to continue with the next iteration or stop. By providing the plots on separate graphs, the user is better able to appreciate the new iteration plotting and determine whether the next iteration is required. By providing the points, the user is able to determine if a change in domain or range would be appropriate. Once the iterations are stopped, the user can start over with new parameters. Due to Maple's capabilities, this program has surpassed the DOS version's number of types of equations that can be graphically analyzed.

Speaker: Monica Velasquez
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Saturday, April 6, 2002

Time: 10:20 AM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 303

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: A Comparative Analysis of Visual Basic Versus Visual C++

Abstract: Visual Basic and Visual C++ are graphical user interface languages developed by Microsoft for Windows applications. Each of these programming languages is written in human readable code called source code. Before a program can be executed, it is converted to object code by a piece of software known as the compiler. Object code cannot be read by people, it is a sequence of bytes that encode specific machine instructions that will be executed by the microprocessor when it runs (executes) the program.
For this research project, I designed three simple programs. I converted each of these three program designs to source code in both Visual Basic 6.0 and Visual C++ 6.0. I compared each set of completed, identical programs' byte code size. The results were used to determine which language produces more object code.

Speaker: Arnold Vento
Candidate for a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Science

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 208

Supervisor: Dr. James W. McGuffee

Title: A Quantitative Analysis of Cross Compiling a Java Based and a C Based Programming Language to an Embedded System

Abstract: The RCX programmable brick is used to control LEGO Mindstorms Robots. The default programming environment for the RCX programmable brick is a limited graphical user interface. A considerable number of alternative programming environments and firmware are available to enhance the performance of a robot's given set of instructions.
This research project analyzes the execution of specific tasks implemented by: Not Quite C (NQC) and LEGO Java Operating System (LeJOS). A series of experiments were performed to test the different facets and limitations of the RCX programmable brick. An analysis was conducted on the performance differences of speed, power, and accuracy of a light sensing navigation algorithm in NQC and LeJOS.

Mathematics Abstracts

Speaker: Audri Brisson
Candidate for Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 2:30 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 209

Supervisor: Dr. M. Jean McKemie

Title: Midsets and Medial Axes

Abstract: Suppose X is a metric space. Two notions of finding the "middle" of sets or objects will be considered. The midset of sets A and B in X is defined as the set of points of X that are the same distance from A as they are from B. The medial axis (or skeleton) of set C is the locus of all centers of circles inside P that touch the boundary of C in two or more points. The pending question is how do these two definitions compare. That is, if set C has two boundary components, named A and B, is the midset of A and B the same as the medial axis of C?

Speaker: Matt Byrd
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002
Time: 3:50 PM
Place: Moody Hall, Room 209
Supervisor: Dr. M. Jean McKemie
Title: Metric Preserving Functions

Abstract: Consider a function f from [0, ¥) to f :[0, ¥). Given any metric space (X,d), one can ask whether f composed with d is still a metric. If f composed with d is always a metric, we say that f is metric-preserving. We consider the case where X is the real line, and study the relationship between a function being metric preserving and satisfying properties such as uniform continuity or a Lipschitz condition.

Speaker: Jeffrey R. Goodwin
Candidate for Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Day: Friday, April 5, 2002

Time: 3:10 PM

Place: Moody Hall, Room 209

Supervisor: Dr. M. Jean McKemie

Title: The Collatz Conjecture

Abstract: The Collatz Conjecture, also known as the 3x+1 problem, is concerned with successive iterates of the piecewise function f(x)=3x+1 if x odd and f(x)=x/2 if x even. For example, x=3 generates the sequence (3,10,5,16,8,4,2,1,4,2,1,...). We say the sequence terminates at the number 1 because it enters into the trivial cycle (1421). The conjecture asks if this property is true for all natural numbers x.

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